I loved this book and practical perspective of Tourette Syndrome in a love story. The characters were fun and thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read the book. I will recommend it to my school psychologist peers.

All those delicious little known words - love that - a word nerd’s heaven. I can very much relate to Cali. This is a sensitive and thoughtful novel that has helped me understand neurodivergence a lot more, and given me a lot to ponder. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8020359706

I really, really liked this book. I didn’t want to put it down. It felt so real and the characters, as complex as they were, were really lovely. The story follows Cali, a career woman working her way up in her company but struggling with the human connection piece needed to be an effective leader, and Simon, a graphic novelist/cartoonist who worries how his Tourettes impacts those around him. Both dealing with childhood traumas, they agree to help each other overcome insecurities and awkwardness to thrive in careers and relationships. What blossoms is a complicated, real relationship between the two. This does feature some little spicy open door scenes that can be passed over if not your thing. Definitely buy and check this book out!

Thank you, ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

I finished this book in almost one day and it stayed with me long after. I went in wanting to learn more about Tourette’s and ended up with something far more expansive and freeing. I loved how the book makes it clear that Tourette’s is only one part of a person, not their entire identity, and how Simon refuses to be framed as inspiration porn. He does not want praise for surviving. He just wants to be an artist presenting his work. That perspective felt honest and deeply respectful.

I also appreciated the early bipolar representation and learning about severe tic attacks that can involve the whole body and last minutes or even hours. The bullying was hard to read, as were Cali’s chapters. She was forced to grow up far too young and carried an unfair amount of responsibility. I saw a lot of myself in her. The vulnerability between Cali and Simon felt earned and deeply moving. I cried at the end. I loved the family dynamics, especially Cali’s stepmom, who became one of her biggest champions, and the brother who brought so much heart.

The Arizona and ASU setting felt vivid and specific, and as someone studying at ASU now, it genuinely made me smile to read. My only hesitation, which lands this at 4.5 stars, is a factual slip about Din Tai Fung. It is a Taiwanese chain, not Singaporean, and I hope that is corrected before print.

Still, this is a soft, real, beautifully written book where the representation truly matters. Highly recommend.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the ARC!